Extra reforms to be trialled for pokies venues

A TRIAL of mandatory account-based play will run across all forty-three venues with gaming machines in Monash, Greater Dandenong and Ballarat from September to November as part of State Government gambling reforms.

People gambling at these venues will need to use a YourPlay card to play electronic gaming machines and can set loss limits, with cards able to be obtained on-the-spot.

The initiative is expected to offer people more control over their gambling habits and can provide them with greater insight into how much they spend gambling.

Venues and their staff will be supported throughout the trial period with staff training, communication materials and in-venue support.

The trial builds on the government’s existing gambling reforms, which include mandatory closure periods from 4am to 10am for gaming areas in all Victorian hotels and clubs, slowing spin rates of new gaming machines, and limiting EFTPOS cash withdrawals to $500 per card in 24 hours.

The number of gaming machines in the state has also been capped at the current level until 2042.

“We’re leading the country with our major reforms to prevent gambling harm across Victoria,” Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Enver Erdogan said.

“This trial is an important first step, helping people take control of their gambling and make better choices.”

According to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission, $3.022 billion was lost in Victorian pokies venues between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023.

More gambling data can be found on the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission website.